Visa Security

Your 3 Digit Code

Also known as the Cardholder Verification Value (CVV2), these digits help to prevent unauthorized use by ensuring that the physical card is in the cardholder's possession while shopping online or by phone. The code is located on the back of your card as shown below. Typically the signature panel will have a series of numbers, but only the last three digits make up the CVV2 code.

Merchants request the CVV2 at checkout from the cardholder, and the information is sent electronically to the card-issuing bank for verification. Within seconds the CVV2 results are returned with authorization. If it's returned invalid, merchants have the right to stop the transaction.

For your added protection, merchants are prohibited from storing the CVV2 number after the transaction has been completed.